Swipe and tap verification for entry system using swipe and tap touch switch

ABSTRACT

A system and method for providing access to a vehicle operation includes a first user-input interface, a second user-input interface, and a vehicle controller. The first user-input interface is configured to interact with a user via a swipe-up input. The second user-input interface is configured to interact with the user via an application independent of the swipe-up input. The vehicle controller is configured to control the vehicle operation in response to detecting a first swipe-type user-input via the first user-input interface and a second user-input via the second user-input interface within a predetermined time.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/358,762 filed Nov. 22, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/728,052 filed on Jun. 2, 2015, issued Nov. 22,2016 as U.S. Pat. No. 9,499,127, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/012,751 filed Jun. 16, 2014. The entiredisclosures of each of the above applications is incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to an entry system for motorvehicles and, more particularly, to a keyless entry system having atwo-step operational functionality.

BACKGROUND

This section provides background information related to the presentdisclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

Many passenger vehicles and trucks are now equipped with keyless entrysystems alone or in combination with a traditional mechanical-type (i.e.key) entry system. In many instances, the keyless entry system includesa portable device, such as a key fob, having pushbuttons that can bemanipulated to unlock/lock the vehicle doors as well as perform otherfunctions (i.e. selective activation of alarms, headlights and/or theignition system) through encoded RF signals transmitted to avehicle-installed receiver. Typically, the signals supplied to thereceiver are primarily used to control the selective locking andunlocking of a power-operated door latch mechanism.

Certain vehicles may be equipped with a vehicle-mounted keyless entrysystem. Typically, a touch device, such as a keypad, is mounted to thevehicle in close proximity to the door handle (i.e. on the door or theB-pillar) which enables an authorized user to enter a passcodeconsisting of a sequence of alpha or numerical codes. Upon verificationof the passcode, an on-board controller unit controls operation of thepower-operated door latch mechanism. The keypad may also be used tocontrol other vehicle operational functions such as, for example, powerrelease of the gas tank cover or the tailgate lift system followingentry and verification of the correct passcode. Some keypads usepushbuttons and/or switches to enter the authentication code. Oneexample of a touchless keyless entry keypad associated with a vehicleentry system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,400,265 the entiredisclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference. As disclosed inthe '265 patent, a plurality of proximity sensors, such as capacitivesensors, are used to as the code input interfaces associated with thekeypad.

Still other vehicles may be equipped with a passive keyless entry (PKE)system which utilizes a transmitter carried by the user to provide asignal to the vehicle-mounted receiver for controlling activation of thepower-operated door latch mechanism with some limited tactile input fromthe user. Typically, close proximity of the transmitter to the vehicleand a single action, such as touching the door handle or waving inproximity to a motion detector, act to control the locking and unlockingfunction of the vehicle door.

While such keyless entry systems have found widespread applications invehicle door systems (i.e. passenger doors, tailgates and closuredoors), a need exists to continually advance the art and address knowndeficiencies associated with conventional keyless entry systems. Forexample, a need exists to provide additional authentication protocol toimprove security and limit unintended access to the vehicle's passengerand/or storage compartments. Another need to be addressed includeslimiting electrical power usage associated with “false activation” ofthe keypad caused by inadvertent inputs to the keypad. Such inadvertentinputs can, for example, be caused by rain, flying debris or carwashspray jets contacting the capacitive sensors associated with the keypad.As a byproduct of solving such deficiencies, inadvertent operation ofthe door latch mechanism will be prevented to maintain the door in itsproper locked or unlocked state.

A need therefore exists for an improved method and system of keylessentry of passenger entry doors and closure members in motor vehicles andother devices. Accordingly, a solution that addresses, at least in part,the above-noted shortcomings and advances the art is desired.

SUMMARY

This section provides a general summary of the present disclosure and isnot intended to be interpreted as a comprehensive disclosure of its fullscope or all of its features, aspects and objectives.

Accordingly, it is an aspect of the present disclosure to provide afirst user-input interface in conjunction with a second user-inputinterface to shift a component required to actuate a functionaloperation of a motor vehicle from an “inactive” mode into an “active”mode. The first user-input interface is configured to sense aforce-based first user input while the second user-input interface isconfigured to sense a non-force based second user input. A controller isconfigured to receive the first and second user inputs and controlshifting of the component from its inactive mode into its active mode inresponse to receipt of the first and second user inputs within apredetermined time period.

It is another aspect of the present disclosure that the first and seconduser-input interfaces be associated with an exterior surface of themotor vehicle.

It is another aspect of the present disclosure that the first user-inputinterface and the second user-input interface are associated with atouch device such as, for example, a keypad accessible from outside ofthe motor vehicle. The first user-input interface being defined by amechanical switch and the second user-input interface being defined byat least one capacitive touch device.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the controlleris configured to shift the component from its inactive mode into itsactive mode in response to the first user input being received afterreceipt of the second user input and within the predetermined timeperiod.

According to an optional aspect of the present disclosure, thecontroller is configured to shift the component from its inactive modeinto its active mode in response to the first user input being receivedprior to receipt of the second user input and within the predeterminedtime period to define a “wake-up” functionality.

Accordingly, it is an aspect of the present disclosure to provide afirst user-input interface in conjunction with at least one seconduser-input interface to establish an “active” mode for a keyless entrysystem of the type well-suited for motor vehicle applications. The firstuser-input interface is configured to sense a force-based first userinput applied to a mode device for the purpose of shifting the keylessentry system from a low-power “inactive” mode into the active mode. Thesecond user-input interface is configured to sense a non-force basedsecond user input and preferably includes a proximity device, such as acapacitive sensor or other suitable touch device. A controller is alsoassociated with the keyless entry system which receives the first andsecond user inputs from the first and second user-input interfaces andcontrols a vehicular operation in response to receipt of the first andsecond user inputs within a predetermined time period.

It is another aspect of the present disclosure to configure the modedevice as a mechanical switch in association with a vehicle-mountedkeypad of the keyless entry system. The keypad may also include aplurality of capacitive input sensors providing means for inputting thesecond user inputs.

It is another aspect of the present disclosure to provide the modedevice in association with a passive keyless entry system.

It is another aspect of the present disclosure to provide a keypadassembly for a keyless entry system equipped with a touch switch having“swipe and tap” functionality.

It is a related aspect to provide such a swipe and tap touch switch inconjunction with a passive entry-passive start (PEPS) keyless entrysystem.

The swipe and tap touch switch is normally maintained in a low quiescentcurrent or “stand by” state until a swipe dependent user-input interfacedetects a vertically directed user input (i.e. an upward swipe motion)applied to an activation or ‘Wake-Up’ touch switch. Upon detection ofthis swiped user input, the touch switch is shifted into a highquiescent current or ‘Run’ state permitting operation of a second userinput such as, for example, a tap dependent input for controllinglock/unlock functionality.

These and other aspects and areas of applicability will become apparentfrom the description provided herein. The description and specificexamples in this summary are intended for purpose of illustration onlyand are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only ofselected embodiments and not all implementations, and are not intendedto limit the present disclosure to only that actually shown. With thisin mind, various features and advantages of example embodiments of thepresent disclosure will become apparent from the following writtendescription when considered in combination with the appended drawings,in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective side view of a motor vehicle equipped with akeyless entry system;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram generally depicting the various components ofthe keyless entry system;

FIG. 3 is an exploded pictorial view of a keypad assembly adapted foruse with the keyless entry system of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of a capacitive touch pad printedcircuit board (PCB) associated with the keypad assembly of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 illustrates a rear view of the capacitive touch pad PCB shown inFIG. 4;

FIG. 6 illustrates the connector harness used for connecting the keypadassembly to an electronic controller unit;

FIG. 7 lists the plurality of available output codes associated withactivation of each capacitive sensing device associated with thecapacitive touch pad PCB;

FIG. 8 illustrates the configuration of a keypad touch plate for thekeypad assembly of the present disclosure and which is adapted for usewith a driver-side front door of the motor vehicle;

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate configurations for a keypad touch plate for akeypad assembly adapted for use with the rear doors and thepassenger-side front door;

FIG. 10 is a photograph of the keypad assembly installed within a coverplate assembly adapted to be mounted to a B-pillar of the motor vehicle;

FIG. 11 is an illustration of the keypad assembly of FIG. 10 with acover portion of the cover plate assembly removed for improved clarity;

FIGS. 12 and 13 are additional views of the keypad assembly mounted inthe applique of the cover plate assembly;

FIG. 14 illustrates a circuit for implementing a method of controllingoperation of the keyless entry system of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 illustrates an example configuration of a keypad touch plate fora keypad assembly of the present disclosure which is adapted for usewith a driver-side front door of a motor vehicle and includes a swipeand tap touch switch;

FIG. 16 illustrates a configuration for a keypad touch plate for akeypad assembly adapted for use with the rear doors and thepassenger-side front door and which is equipped with the swipe and taptouch switch;

FIG. 17 illustrates a logic circuit diagram for the swipe and tap touchswitch of FIGS. 15 and 16;

FIG. 18 illustrates a swipe and tap touch switch having a dual zonecapacitive input interface and a dual zone illumination configuration;

FIG. 19 illustrates a dual-zone capacitive touch switch configurationadapted for use with the swipe and tap touch switch of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 20 is a partially-sectioned view of the dual-zone touch switchconstructed according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 illustrates the dual-zone illumination pattern associated withthe swipe and tap touch switch of the present disclosure;

FIG. 22 is another illustration of the dual zone illuminationconfiguration for the swipe and tap touch switch;

FIG. 23 is yet another illustration showing a partially-sectioned viewof the swipe and tap touch switch;

FIGS. 24A and 24B illustrate a front view of the dual zone swipe and taptouch switch;

FIGS. 25 and 26 provide example plots of capacitive inputs for theswipe-up and tap inputs, respectively; and

FIG. 27 illustrates a dual capacitive and button tap configuration.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughoutthe various views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, details are set forth to provide anunderstanding of the present disclosure. In some instances, certaincircuits, structures and techniques have not been described or shown indetail in order not to obscure the disclosure.

In general, the present disclosure relates to keyless entry systems ofthe type well-suited for use in virtually all motor vehicleapplications. The keyless entry system of this disclosure will bedescribed in conjunction with one or more example embodiments. However,the specific example embodiments disclosed are merely provided todescribe the inventive concepts, features, advantages and objectiveswill sufficient clarity to permit those skilled in this art tounderstand and practice the disclosure.

More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a vehicular systemfor providing access to a component required to activate a vehicleoperation wherein the system includes a first user-input interfaceassociated with an exterior surface of the vehicle which is configuredto sense a first user input that is dependent on an applied force, asecond user-input interface external to the vehicle which is configuredto sense a second user input that is independent of an applied force,and a controller configured to control at least the component inaccordance with the second user input received at the second user-inputinterface provided that the first user-input interface receives thefirst user input within a predetermined time before or after receipt ofthe second user input at the second user-input interface. One example ofsuch a vehicular system is a keyless entry system for controllinglocking and unlocking of a power-operated actuator of a door latchmechanism wherein the first user-input interface is defined by amechanical switch and the second user-input interface is defined by acapacitive touch device. The keyless entry system may include a touchdevice, such as a keypad, mounted to an external surface of the vehicleand have both the first user-input interface and at least one seconduser-input interface associated with the keypad. The keyless entrysystem should be understood to also contemplate power releasefunctionality of lift gates and any other closure members capable ofbeing locked/unlocked and/or released in association with a motorvehicle.

The present disclosure further relates to a vehicular system forproviding access to a component required to activate a vehicle operationwherein the system includes a first user-input interface associated withan exterior surface of the vehicle which is configured to sense a firstuser input, a second user-input interface external to the vehicle andconfigured to sense a second user input, and a controller configured tocontrol the component in accordance with the second user input beingreceived at the second user-input interface within a predetermined timebefore or after receipt of the first user input being received at thefirst user-input interface. The first user-input interface is a touchswitch operable to detect an upwardly directed “swipe” user inputoperable for shifting the switch from a low-power “Stand-By” mode into ahigh-power operational or ‘Run’ mode. The second user input may, forexample, be a tap-type input applied to the switch, or a separate buttonor second switch, which is operable to control lock and unlock functionsof a power-operated actuator of a door latch mechanism associated with akeyless entry system.

Referring initially to FIG. 1, a side view of a motor vehicle 10 isshown partially cut away to include a front driver-side door 12 and arear driver-side door 13 which both provide access to a passengercompartment 14. Front door 12 is shown to include a door handle 16 and akey hole 18 provided for otherwise conventional locking and unlocking ofa mechanically-activated latch mechanism (not shown) mounted withinfront door 12. Movement of door handle 16 functions to release door 12for movement relative to body portion 24 when the latch mechanism isunlocked. A similar door handle (not shown) would be provided on reardoor 13 and interconnected to another latch mechanism (not shown)provided for locking and unlocking rear door 13. As will be detailed,each of the latch mechanisms may also include a power-operated actuatorfor controlling the locking and unlocking functions in association witha keyless entry system. Motor vehicle 10 is shown to also include anA-pillar 20, a B-pillar 22 and a roof portion 26.

In the example shown in FIG. 1, B-pillar 22 is covered by a cover plateassembly 28. A keypad assembly 30 associated with the keyless entrysystem of the present disclosure is mounted to B-pillar 22 within coverplate assembly 28 at the location identified by the dashed lines. Keypadassembly 30 is mounted between a structural portion of B-pillar 22 andcover plate assembly 28. As an alternative, keypad assembly 30 could bemounted to front door 12 in proximity to handle 16.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a block diagram of various components of thekeyless entry system is provided. As seen, keypad assembly 30 includesor is connected to a processing unit 32 which, in turn, communicateswith a controller unit 34. Controller 34 provides an electrical outputalong line 36 to a power-operated actuator of a door latch mechanism 38.As is known, controller unit 34 may also provide electrical outputsalong lines 40 for controlling other vehicular systems 42 (i.e. powerrelease of a trunk or liftgate, actuation of the lights and/or securityfunctions, and activation of the ignition system and/or the vehicle'sheating system, etc.). A power source, such as a battery 44, may providepower to processing unit 32. As will be detailed, keypad assembly 30includes a capacitive touch keypad unit 46, a capacitive touch lockswitch 48 and a force-dependent mode input device 50.

The operation of the keyless entry system of FIG. 2 is configured topermit selective access to passenger compartment 14 via front door 12or, in the alternative, both doors 12, 13 when the operator(hereinafter, the “user”) enters an authorization code via keypad unit46. The authentication code entered is transmitted to processing unit 32where it is compared to a correct or verification code stored in memory.If the entered passcode matches the verification code, a signal is sentto controller unit 34 which, in turn, will unlock latch mechanism 38 andpermit operation of door handle 16 to release front door 12 (or bothdoors 12, 13) and allow access to passenger compartment 14. Thoseskilled in the art will recognize that this rudimentary control diagramis merely an example of only one suitable arrangement for the keylessentry system.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 through 8, keypad assembly 30 is shown withkeypad unit 46 configured to define a user-input touch interface adaptedto sense user inputs based on a characteristic that is independent offorce. Keypad unit 46 has a touch pad 60, a capacitive touch pad PCB 62,and a wiring harness 64. Touch pad 60 includes five (5) touch user-inputinterfaces or nodes, best shown in FIG. 8 to include a first (1-2) touchnode 60A, a second (3-4) touch node 60B, a third (5-6) touch node 60C, afourth (7-8) touch node 60D, and a fifth (9-0) touch node 60E. A visualindicator 66 is also associated with touch pad 60. Touch pad 60 issecured to capacitive touch pad PCB 62 which includes a first side 68(FIG. 4) and a second side 70 (FIG. 5). First side 68, referred to asthe user finger touch side, includes six (6) high brightness LED's. FiveLED's, identified by reference numerals 72A-72E, correspond and functionto illuminate a corresponding one of the five touch nodes 60A-60E whilethe sixth LED 74 provides illumination to visual indicator 66. Thesecond side 70 of touch pad PCB includes a keypad microcontroller 75interactive with five (5) capacitive input devices 76A-76E, eachcorresponding to one of touch nodes 60A-60E on touch pad 60. Wiringharness 64 includes an output connector 80 electrically connected tocapacitive touch pad PCB 62, an input connector 82 adapted to beelectrically connected to the controller unit, hereinafter referred toas a body control module (BCM) 84, and a multi-wire assembly 86.

As seen in FIG. 3, an applique 90 associate with a cover plate assembly28 includes a guide channel 94 configured to receive and retain touchpad 60 and capacitive touch pad PCB 62 therein. Applique 90 is adaptedto be mounted to B-pillar 22 of vehicle 10. Applique 90 can be made froma tinted black or dark polycarbonate or acrylic to appear opaque insunlight, darkness and artificial light to provide an aestheticappearance. LED 72A-72E illuminate to permit visual indication of touchnodes 60A-60E for activation thereof by the user. Obviously, touch pad60 can alternatively be mounted so as to be directly accessible andextend from applique 90. As noted, keypad assembly 30 could also bemounted to driver door 12 if so desired.

FIG. 7 is provided to illustrate that each touch node or user interfacehas an output code from BCM 84 such that a correctly entered sequence ofuser inputs will authenticate the pass code to permit BCM 84 to signalkeypad microcontroller 75 to send an actuator signal to thepower-operated activator of door latch mechanism 38.

A pair of user-input interface devices associated with lock switch 48are shown in FIG. 8 to include a first or “LOCK” touch node 100 and asecond or “RELEASE” touch node 102. Preferably, nodes 100 and 102 arecapacitive type sensing devices similar in function to touch nodes60A-60E on touch pad PCB 62. In addition, a user input device associatedwith mode input device 50 is shown to include a “wake-up” switch orbutton 104. Wake-up button 104 is a mechanical switch providing auser-input interface that is configured to sense a user input based on aforce or pressure value applied thereto. As such, a distinct type ofactivation input is associated with wake-up button 104 than is requiredfor capacitive keypad unit 46 and capacitive lock switch 48. Inoperation, after the correct combination of user-input interface options60A-60E are asserted, the Lock/Release user inputs associated withfunctions 100 and 102 become available. As will be detailed further,wake-up button 104 defines a “first” or force-based user-input interfacewhile keypad touch device 46 defines a “second” or non-force baseduser-input interface. Activation of force-based wake-up button 104either before or after activation of the non-force based touch device46, within a predetermined amount of time, will function to authenticatethe inputted passcode and permit the required activation of latchingmechanism 38 via Lock/Release functions 100, 102. Those skilled in theart will appreciate that the Lock/Release functionality provided by lockswitch 48 can be eliminated if desired such that the Release functionmay occur automatically upon correct entry of the passcode sequencewhile the Lock function may occur upon pressing touch nodes 60D and 60Esimultaneously.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate touch pad configurations for a keypad unit110 adapted for use with rear passenger doors 13 of vehicle 10 and/orthe front passenger-side door of vehicle 10. As seen, keypad unit 110 issimilar to keypad unit 46 except that the non-force based user-inputinterfaces (i.e. touch nodes 60A-60E) have been eliminated. Wake-upswitch 104′ is still a force-based switch to provide an intentionaluser-input interface that is required to shift keypad unit 110 from itsinactive mode into its active mode of operation. Lock function 100 andrelease function 102 are similar to those described previously. As analternative to the non-force based user inputs associated with touchnodes 60A-60E and Lock/Release functions 100, 102, the capacitive touchinput devices may be substituted with other proximity-type sensingtechnologies. In any arrangement, keypad units 46, 110 must be shiftedinto its active mode via activation of wake-up switch 104, 104′ prior toBCM 84 signaling keypad microcontroller 25 to authenticate the inputtedpasscode sequence and activate door latch 38.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 through 13, a B-pillar keypad assembly 120 isshown to include cover plate unit 92 having applique 90 mounted to acover plate 122. FIG. 10 illustrates the location of Lock node 100,Release node 102, and wake-up switch 104, while the capacitiveuser-input interfaces on keypad assembly 30 are not illuminated. Lockswitch 48 is also mounted to cover plate 122 and integrates theLock/Release capacitive type user-input interfaces 100, 102 in a commonunit with the force-based user-input interface of wake-up switch 104.Obviously, the arrangement can be reconfigured in many alternativearrangements such as incorporating touch nodes 60A-60E and Lock/Releasetouch nodes 100, 102 into a common keypad and microcontroller assemblywhile maintaining wake-up switch as a separate device. Regardless of thearrangement, the keyless entry system of the present disclosure has afirst user-input interface for providing an actuation or “wake-up”function and one or more second user-input interfaces for providing theauthentication function prior to activation of the door lock.

Referring to a circuit diagram shown in FIG. 14, a circuit 200 isprovided for implementing the systems and methods of the presentdisclosure and includes a keypad ECU 202, an electrically-activatedlatch ECU (Elatch ECU) 204, and a body control module (BCM) 206. Circuit200 is configured to be implemented along with a touch device 208 thatis identical in function to that keypad unit 46 previously described.Wake switch 210 is shown included in keypad ECU 202. Wake switch 210 maybe implemented with any circuit element that provides a switchingcapability such as, for example, a transistor. Wake switch 210 isinitiated when the user asserts wake-up button 104 shown herein as apush button on the keypad. Once wake switch 210 has been closed, anindication via a passive entry/passive start (PEPS) lock out wire 212 istransmitted to Elatch ECU 204. While FIG. 14 shows connections withwires, those skilled will appreciate that wireless connections are alsopossible and contemplated.

Keypad ECU 202 may be supplied with power via a battery (Vbatt) 214after wake switch 210 has been closed. If wake switch 210 is closed, thepasscode entered via touch input device 208 may be transmitted to BCM206 via Out wires 216, 218, 220. Thereafter, BCM 206 transmits anindication that the enter code is verified and authenticated via LEDline 222. Accordingly, a command signed transmitted via a latch releaseline 224 is delivered to Elatch ECU 204 instructing it to perform anoperation such as, for example, releasing the door latch mechanism. Oncethe door is thereafter opened or subsequently closed, wake switch 210 isopened.

While the terms “wake” and “wake-up” have been used to describeforce-based switches 104, 104′ and 210, it will be understood that thisnomenclature is only used to describe the function of these switches toshift the keyless entry system into an active mode. As has been clearlystated, assertion of the first force-based user-input interface canoccur either before or after assertion of the second capacitive-baseduser-input interface(s) to shift the keyless entry system from aninactive mode into an active mode, contingent on receipt by thecontroller of both of the first and second user inputs within apredetermined time period. One non-limiting example of a predeterminedtime period for input of both user input is in the range of 5-15seconds.

In addition, the terms “inactive/stand-by” and “active/run” are intendedto describe the status of the controller to actuate the vehiclecomponent such as, for example, the power door latch mechanism. In theinactive mode, the keypad is still operable to receive the capacitivesecond user input(s) to provide passcode verification. However,assertion of the force-based first user input is required to confirm theverification process and allow the controller to send an actuationsystem to the vehicle component. Thus, a two-step authentication processis provided.

The present disclosure is also directed to keypad assemblies for use inkeyless entry systems (i.e. passive entry and/or passive start) having atouch switch with “swipe and tap” functionality. An upwardly directedswipe motion applied to or in close proximity with the touch switchfunctions to shift the switch from a “stand-by” or low current state toa “run” or high current state. The upward swipe is provided to eliminateor significantly limit occurrences of false activation of the touchswitch caused by rain. In this regard, the touch switch also includes adual zone illumination image configuration and capacitive switcharrangement, with the image displayed on an applique of the vehicle. Theimage displayed indicates, for example, the state of the door latchmechanism (i.e. locked or unlocked) when the user approaches thevehicle. One part of the image is displayed in a certain color when thedoor is unlocked. In contrast, both parts will be displayed in differentcolors when the door is locked.

The capacitive touch switch is required to make full contact (i.e. noair gaps) with the applique, which can limit the packaging available fora two part/two color image display. As is known, there are problems withfalse activations of capacitive switches in externally-mountedkeypads/appliques in automotive applications due to water contact.During a rainstorm or car wash, the water can contact the user-inputinterface and cause electrical activation of the capacitive switch.This, in turn, can cause the system to switch from a low power state toa high power state (i.e. LED display with 20 milliamp current draw).Such unintentional current draw is undesirable. Accordingly, a switchhousing or applique is provided which separates the two parts of theimage into different zones so that each zone can be lit independentlywithout light bleeding through to the other zone. To accomplish this, anopaque barrier, provided in either the switch housing or the applique,creates two distinct zones with each zone capable of transmitting lightthrough an image without light contamination to the other zone. The useof double-sided adhesive tape to bond the printed circuit board (PCB) tothe switch housing and to bond the switch housing to the appliqueeliminates air gaps.

In one configuration, LED's are mounted into holes in the PCB to createthe necessary light required to display the image. Preferably, two (2)LED's are used to light two different color image portions of the image(i.e. the lower half) while a single LED lights the upper half of theimage. An example image can be a lock icon.

The logic utilized to eliminate false water activations includes theoperator inputting a “swipe-up” motion to activate two separatecapacitive contact zones or pads in sequence. The controller unitrecognizes this sequential capacitive input and switches the system froma low power state into a high power state. The system has three (3)stages of operation including a stand-by stage, a wake-up stage, and afull-run stage. Accordingly, a two capacitive sensor/pad configurationoriented vertically provides means for shifting from the low powerstand-by mode into the wake-up mode. A low frequency scan is used in thelow quiescent current stand-by state. It acts as a waiting mode for userto wake-up the touch switch and enter the command (swipe-up). The Runstate is transitioned when the wake-up state is detected. In this state,quiescent current is not a concern and capacitive sensors are run athigh scan frequency. Preferably, in order to positively identify a LOCKcommand in the Run state—both sensing elements (i.e. the upper and lowercapacitive inputs) need to be triggered.

Referring to FIG. 15, an example configured of a keypad plate 600 for akeypad assembly 46′ is shown which is generally similar to keypad plate60 of FIG. 8 with the exception that capacitive input-interfaces 100,102 for the LOCK/UNLOCK functions has been replaced with a swipe and tap(S/T) touch switch 602. Similarly, keypad plate 700 of FIG. 16 isgenerally similar to keypad plate 110 of FIG. 9A except that theLOCK/UNLOCK function switches 100, 102 have again been replaced with aS/T touch switch 702. Generally speaking, touch switch 602, 702 isconfigured to include a first or lower capacitive input interface and asecond or upper capacitive input interface aligned vertically andoperatively arranged to detect an upwardly directed or “swipe-up”sequential input. Upon detection of the swipe-up input, the controller(as previously disclosed) shifts the keyless entry system from a switch“stand-by” state to a switch “wake-up” state. In the wake-up state, a“tap” input to one or both capacitive input interfaces (as required tomeet lock/unlock control) provides a switch “run” state wherein one ofthe functional operations of the LOCK or UNLOCK modes is available.

FIG. 17 illustrates an example logic circuit 800 for touch switches 602,702 for a passive entry/passive start (PEPS) entry system. Specifically,block 802 indicates the T/S touch switch is operational in its low power(i.e. lower quiescent current) condition. A low frequency scan of thestatus of switch 602, 702 is performed. A decision block 804 determineswhether a swipe-up input has been detected. If not, switch 602, 702 ismaintained in its stand-by mode. If yes, switch 602, 702 is shifted intoa wake-up state. Thereafter, a tap inputted to switch 602, 702 shifts itinto its Run state, as shown, at block 806, and allows the subsequenttap input to perform either of a desired (i.e. Lock or an Unlock)function. A high frequency scan is performed in the Run state and switch602, 702 is now functioning in a high power (i.e. high quiescentcurrant) condition. Line 808 indicates that the tap input into touchswitch 602, 702 must be completed within a predetermined time period toauthenticate the input. If the tap input is not authenticated afterexpiration of the time period, switch 602, 702 returns to its stand-bystate.

Referring now to FIGS. 18-21, a T/S touch switch 900 adapted for usewith either lock switch 602 of FIG. 16 and lock switch 702 of FIG. 16will now be described in greater detail. Touch switch 900 is preferablymolded/inserted into an applique 902 adapted to be mounted to anexternal surface of the recess. Touch switch 900 includes a firstcapacitive switch pad 904 associated with a first or lower portion 906of an applique recess and a second capacitive switch pad 908 associatedwith a second or upper portion 910 of the applique recess. An opaquebarrier 912 delineates lower portion 906 from upper portion 910 tocreate a dual light zone. Upon assembly, second capacitive switch pad908 is configured to be vertically aligned above first capacitive switchpad 904. As also shown, a pair of LED's 914, 916 are aligned with firstcapacitive switch pad 904 while a single LED 918 is associated withsecond capacitive switch pad 908.

FIG. 19 illustrates a two-zone capacitive switch design associated withPCB 920 of touch switch 900. PCB 920 illustrates circuitry for a lowerzone 922 controlling operation of the first capacitive touch pad 904 andan upper zone 924 associated with second capacitive touch pad 908. Thearrow 926 illustrates the directional input required to sequentiallyactivate first touch pad 904 and second touch pad 908 to shift touchswitch 900 from its stand-by mode into its wake-up mode.

FIG. 20 illustrates a partially-sectioned view of touch switch 900.Switch 900 includes a two-part symbol, such as a lock icon 930 having afirst/lower part 932 aligned with first capacitive pad 904 and asecond/upper part 934 aligned with second capacitive pad 908. Icon 930is disposed between applique 902 and a transparent switch cover 936.Electrical leads 938 are provided to electrically interconnect switch900 to controller unit 34. FIG. 21 illustrates the dual zoneillumination configuration with a lower dual color first zone 940 and anupper single color second zone 942 delineated by a horizontal web 944 ofthe opaque barrier 912.

FIGS. 22, 23, 24A, and 24B illustrate a slightly modified version oftouch switch 900 that is generally similar to touch switch 900′ withexception that it is molded into a switch housing 946.

FIG. 25 provides an example plot of capacitive signal level vs. time fora pair of different “swipe-up” inputs to touch switch 900, 900′.Similarly, FIG. 26 provides an example plot for a pair of different“tap” inputs to touch switch 900, 900′.

FIG. 27 illustrates a touch switch 900′. Touch switch 900A is shown toinclude a first capacitive touch pad 980 aligned vertically below asecond capacitive touch pad 982. A distinct “tap” pad 984 is disposedcentrally between touch pads 980 and 982. Tap pad 984 can be acapacitive device, a mechanical switch or any other suitable devicecapable of inputting a desired functional command following sequentialactivation of pads 980, 982 via the upward swipe input to switch 900A.An illuminated icon/display 988 is associated with tap pad 984. Touchswitch 900A is merely one possible alternative configuration of swipeand tap switch of the present disclosure.

Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the present disclosurehas applicability to keyless entry system, both passive and non-passive,for controlling actuation of additional vehicular functions. Anon-limiting listing of such additional functions may include release ofthe gas tank cover plate, power window control, power release ofvehicular doors in addition to lock/unlock functionality, andlock/unlock and power release of liftgates. It should also be recognizedthat the force-based user-input interface may be located remotely fromthe capacitive-based user-input interfaces. The force-based input is notintended to merely wake-up or actuate the non-force based input, but canalso be part of a multi-stage control protocol for controlling a vehiclecomponent. The present invention also contemplates use of seconduser-input interfaces for gesture recognition control systems.

It should furthermore be understood that the present disclosure is alsoapplicable to passive keyless entry systems where the user possesses apassive entry fob such that the first force-based user-input interfacewould act as a “request” button that is pushed in combination (eitherbefore or after) performance of a single action such as for example,actuating a capacitive touch sensor on the door handle to lock andunlock/release the vehicle door. Once the recognized combination ofrequest button engagement and the non-force based single action input(s)are received by the controller, and the entry fob confirmsauthentication for access, then the vehicle is controlled to perform therequested function.

The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided forpurposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or featuresof a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particularembodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be usedin a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described.The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to beregarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modificationsare intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that the inventive conceptdisclosed in association with an example keyless entry system canlikewise be implemented into many other vehicular systems to control oneor more operations and/or functions. Means of activating the seconduser-input interfaces (the touch interfaces on the keypad), other thantouch may be employed. The alternative to capacitive sensors mayinclude, without limitation, touch sensitive sensors, resistive sensors,temperature sensors, optical scanners, gesture sensors or anycombination thereof provided that they are non-force based inputs.

Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will bethorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled inthe art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples ofspecific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thoroughunderstanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will beapparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not beemployed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many differentforms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of thedisclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes,well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are notdescribed in detail.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularexample embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As usedherein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and“having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of statedfeatures, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, butdo not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features,integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groupsthereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described hereinare not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance inthe particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specificallyidentified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood thatadditional or alternative steps may be employed.

When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,”“connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may bedirectly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element orlayer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast,when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engagedto,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another elementor layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Otherwords used to describe the relationship between elements should beinterpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directlybetween,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein,the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more ofthe associated listed items.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein todescribe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections,these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should notbe limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguishone element, component, region, layer or section from another region,layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numericalterms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearlyindicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region,layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element,component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachingsof the example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,”“lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease ofdescription to describe one element or feature's relationship to anotherelement(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatiallyrelative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations ofthe device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depictedin the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turnedover, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements orfeatures would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features.Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation ofabove and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relativedescriptions used herein interpreted accordingly.

What is claimed is:
 1. (canceled)
 2. A system for providing access to acomponent to actuate a vehicle operation, comprising: a user-accessiblefirst user-input interface associated with an exterior of the vehicleand configured to sense a first user input; a second user-inputinterface external to the vehicle and associated with the firstuser-input interface and configured to sense a second user input; acontroller configured to allow activation of the component only if thefirst user-input interface receives the first user input in apredetermined sequence and the first user-input interface also receivesthe first user input within a predetermined time of the second userinput being received at the second user-input interface; and the firstuser-input interface including an applique adapted to be mounted to theexterior of the vehicle and defining a lower portion and an upperportion and a first capacitive touch pad disposed behind the lowerportion of the applique and a second capacitive touch pad disposedbehind the upper portion of the applique, wherein the first capacitivetouch pad and the second capacitive touch pad are configured to detect aswipe motion to shift the system into a run state.
 3. The system as setforth in claim 2, wherein the second capacitive switch pad is verticallyaligned with the first capacitive switch pad.
 4. The system as set forthin claim 2, further including at least one first light emitting diodealigned and associated with the first capacitive switch pad and at leastone second light emitting diode aligned and associated with the secondcapacitive switch pad.
 5. The system as set forth in claim 4, whereinthe at least one first light emitting diode includes a pair of secondlight emitting diodes.
 6. The system as set forth in claim 5, whereinthe pair of first light emitting diodes define a lower dual color firstzone and the at least one second light emitting diode defines an uppersingle color second zone.
 7. The system as set forth in claim 5, furtherincluding an opaque barrier delimiting the lower portion of the appliquefrom the upper portion to create a dual light zone.
 8. The system as setforth in claim 7, further including an icon disposed between the lightemitting diodes and the applique and having a first part aligned withthe first capacitive pad adjacent the lower portion of the applique anda second part aligned with the second capacitive pad adjacent the upperportion of the applique.
 9. The system as set forth in claim 5, whereinthe first light emitting diodes and the second light emitting diodes areattached to a printed circuit board and the system further includes aswitch housing disposed about the printed circuit board.
 10. The systemas set forth in claim 9, wherein the switch housing is attached directlyto the applique.
 11. The system as set forth in claim 9, furtherincluding a transparent switch cover enclosing the switch housing anddisposed between the printed circuit board and in a spaced relationshipwith the applique.
 12. The system as set forth in claim 2, wherein theswipe motion is an upward swipe motion from the lower portion appliqueand activating the first capacitive switch pad to the upper portion ofthe applique and activating the second capacitive switch pad.
 13. Thesystem as set forth in claim 2, wherein the swipe motion is an upwardswipe motion from the lower portion applique and activating the firstcapacitive switch pad to the upper portion of the applique andactivating the second capacitive switch pad.
 14. The system as set forthin claim 2, further including a tap pad being one of a capacitive deviceand a mechanical switch for inputting a desired functional commandfollowing sequential activation of the first capacitive pad and thesecond capacitive pad.
 15. The system as set forth in claim 14, whereinthe tap pad is disposed centrally between the first capacitive touch padand the second capacitive touch pad.
 16. A system for providing accessto a component to actuate a vehicle operation, comprising: auser-accessible first user-input interface associated with an exteriorof the vehicle and comprising a swipe and tap touch switch andconfigured to sense a first user input; a second user-input interfaceexternal to the vehicle and associated with the first user-inputinterface and configured to sense a second user input; a controllerconfigured to: scan the swipe and tap touch switch at a low frequencyfor the first user input in a low power stand-by state, determinewhether the first user input has been detected in the stand-by state,maintain the swipe and tap touch switch in the low power stand-by statein response to not determining that the first user input has beendetected in the stand-by state, and switch the swipe and tap touchswitch to a high power run state in response to determining that thefirst user input has been detected in the stand-by state.
 17. The systemas set forth in claim 16, wherein the controller is further configuredto: scan the swipe and tap touch switch at a high frequency for thesecond user input in the run state; and determine whether the seconduser input has been detected in the run state.
 18. The system as setforth in claim 17, wherein the second user input is a tap input.
 19. Thesystem as set forth in claim 17, wherein the controller is furtherconfigured to allow activation of the component in response todetermining that the first user input has been detected in the stand-bystate within a predetermined time of determining that the second userinput has been detected in the run state.
 20. The system as set forth inclaim 16, wherein the controller is further configured to return to thestand-by state in response to not determining that the first user inputhas been detected in the stand-by state within a predetermined time ofdetermining that the second user input has been detected in the runstate.
 21. The system as set forth in claim 16, further including atleast one light emitting diode coupled to the controller and wherein thecontroller is further configured to provide a visual indication of atleast one of determining that the first user input has been detected anddetermining that the second user input has been detected.